The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class J C Bridges (ASN: RA-6903331), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 78th Heavy Tank Battalion, 24th Infantry Division, on 15 July 1950 north of Taejon, Korea, along the Kum River. When several enemy tanks were supporting the Infantry crossing the Kum River, Sergeant First Class Bridges realizing his tank would be destroyed if placed in a firing position, dismounted a 30 caliber machine gun from his tank and placed it in position to cover the road and bridge that afforded the enemy crossing. Even against superior numbers and heavy enemy fire he held his position and threw back repeated attempts to cross the river at this point. It was several hours later that the enemy crossed at other points and by overwhelming numbers forced Sergeant First Class Bridges to withdraw. His initiative, tenacity, and devotion to duty is in keeping with high traditions of the Armed Forces and reflects great credit on himself and the Military Service.